The Oldest Company In Each State That Is Still Running Today + The Oldest Company In America

Running a business is challenging, but sustaining it for over a century is a remarkable feat. According to the BLS, only about 20% of businesses survive their first year, and less than 15% make it to a decade. Yet, across the United States, there are exceptional companies that have defied these odds, some predating their states’ admission to the union and even the formation of the United States itself.

In this article, we explore the oldest-running businesses in each state, showcasing those that have not only survived but thrived through changing times, economic upheavals, and evolving consumer preferences.

Summary Of Our Findings On The Oldest Company In Each State

• Shirley Plantation is the oldest company in the US, founded in Virginia in 1613, 163 years before the United States was established.

• The four oldest businesses are all farms, which is not surprising given the agricultural roots of early American commerce.

• To endure for over a century, many companies have adapted significantly. For instance, Ducommun, established in 1849 in California, evolved from a hardware store to a leader in aerospace and defense. Who knows what they might become in the next 200 years?

• The oldest businesses today represent a variety of industries, including agriculture, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing.

• Interestingly, several of the oldest businesses were associated with maritime activities and even infamous pirates.

Read on to discover the oldest business in your state and learn how they have successfully navigated the test of time.

Alabama – Bromberg’s, 1836

Bromberg’s was founded in 1836 by Frederick Bromberg, a Prussian immigrant. He opened a jewelry store that has thrived despite challenges such as fires and economic downturns. Today, Bromberg’s continues to be a prominent name in Alabama’s retail landscape.

Alaska – Alaska Commercial Company, 1867

The Alaska Commercial Company, a staple in Alaskan communities, began as a trading post where locals bartered goods. While it now resembles a modern grocery store, it has historically served as a hub for community interaction.

Arizona – The Palace, 1877

The Palace, located on historic Whiskey Row, was a favorite watering hole during Arizona’s wild west era. Surviving Prohibition as a speakeasy, this iconic establishment remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Arkansas – Rose Law Firm, 1820

Operating since Arkansas became a state, Rose Law Firm is the third oldest law firm in the United States, providing legal services for over 200 years.

California – Ducommun, 1849

Established in 1849, Ducommun began as a hardware store and has since transformed into a leader in aerospace and industrial manufacturing.

Colorado – Ramp;R Market, 1857

Founded in 1857, Ramp;R Market has served the San Luis community for generations, providing essential goods and a gathering place for locals.

Connecticut – Field View Farm, 1639

Field View Farm, known for its delicious ice cream, has weathered numerous economic changes and remains a beloved local farm in Connecticut.

Delaware – DuPont, 1802

Starting as a gunpowder mill, DuPont has evolved into a global chemical company, known for innovations that have shaped various industries.

Florida – Pensacola Hardware, 1851

Pensacola Hardware has built a reputation for quality service and has adapted to the changing needs of its customers over the years.

Georgia – The Pirates’ House, 1753

The Pirates’ House in Savannah has a rich history, once serving as an inn for sailors and pirates alike. Today, it remains a popular dining spot for tourists.

Hawaii – Punahou School, 1841

Punahou School, established in 1841, has a prestigious history of educating Hawaii’s elite and offers a top-notch educational experience to its students today.

Idaho – Joyce Ranch, 1864

Joyce Ranch has been family-owned for five generations, showcasing the enduring spirit of agriculture in Idaho.

Illinois – C.D. Peacock Jewelry, 1837

Founded in 1837, C.D. Peacock continues to offer fine jewelry and has become a cherished institution in Chicago.

Indiana – The Log Inn, 1824

Established as a stagecoach stop in 1824, The Log Inn is known for its hearty meals and rich history, including a visit from Abraham Lincoln.

Iowa – Breitbach’s Country Dining, 1852

Breitbach’s has been a family-run establishment since 1852 and continues to serve classic country meals, having rebuilt twice after fires.

Kansas – Davis Funeral Chapel, 1855

Davis Funeral Chapel has been offering compassionate services to families in Kansas for over 165 years.

Kentucky – Old Talbott Tavern, 1779

As a historical stagecoach stop, the Old Talbott Tavern has hosted many notable guests, including Andrew Jackson.

Louisiana – Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, 1772

LaFitte’s is not only the oldest bar in Louisiana but also has a storied past connected to pirates and New Orleans history.

Maine – Seaside Inn, 1667

The Seaside Inn, run by the Gooch family since 1667, continues to welcome guests to Kennebunk Beach.

Maryland – Middleton Tavern, 1750

Middleton Tavern has served notable figures and continues to offer delicious seafood in a historic setting.

Massachusetts – Barker’s Farm, 1642

Barker’s Farm has remained in the same family for eleven generations, showcasing the beauty of American agriculture.

Michigan – New Hudson Inn, 1831

New Hudson Inn offers a historic ambiance with great food and a wide selection of local craft beers.

Minnesota – Paul Fire And Marine Insurance Company, 1853

Founded to meet local insurance needs, Paul Fire and Marine Insurance has established itself as a cornerstone in the industry.

Mississippi – King’s Tavern, 1789

King’s Tavern has a rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War and continues to serve delicious food in a rustic atmosphere.

Missouri – J. Huston Tavern, 1834

J. Huston Tavern is renowned as the oldest restaurant west of the Mississippi, offering a taste of history with every meal.

Montana – Bale of Hay Saloon, 1863

This historic saloon in Virginia City offers a glimpse into the past along with a menu of classic cocktails.

Nebraska – Florence Mill, 1843

Florence Mill has evolved into a museum and event venue, showcasing its historical significance in Omaha.

Nevada – Genoa Bar, 1853

Genoa Bar has welcomed many famous visitors and retains its old west charm with a rich collection of artifacts.

New Hampshire – Tuttle’s Red Barn, 1632

Operating for nearly four centuries, Tuttle’s Red Barn is a family-run farm that showcases the strong agricultural heritage of New Hampshire.

New Jersey – Barnsboro Inn, 1720

The Barnsboro Inn has served as a local gathering spot for centuries, evolving from an inn to a beloved restaurant.

New Mexico – El Farol, 1835

El Farol has become a cultural staple in Santa Fe, offering Spanish cuisine and live music in a vibrant setting.

New York – Saunderskill Farm, 1680

As a family-operated farm and market, Saunderskill has been a community favorite for generations.

North Carolina – Tavern in Old Salem, 1784

The Tavern in Old Salem offers a unique dining experience with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and historical authenticity.

North Dakota – Bismark Tribune, 1873

Founded by Clement A. Lounsberry, the Bismark Tribune has a rich history of journalism and community service.

Ohio – Golden Lamb, 1803

Golden Lamb has a storied history of serving US presidents and continues to delight guests with exceptional dining.

Oklahoma – BC Clark Jewelers, 1892

BC Clark Jewelers, Oklahoma’s oldest running business, has maintained a family-owned legacy since its inception.

Oregon – Van Dusen Beverages, 1849

Van Dusen Beverages has been a local staple, adapting its product lines to meet modern consumer preferences.

Pennsylvania – Rowland Company, 1732

Rowland Company has transitioned from tool manufacturing to producing industrial power transmission products, showcasing its adaptability.

Rhode Island – White Horse Tavern, 1683

White Horse Tavern, known as America’s Oldest Tavern, has a rich history and continues to serve delicious meals in a historic setting.

South Carolina – McCrady’s, 1778

McCrady’s has evolved from a simple tavern to a fine dining establishment, maintaining its historical charm while offering modern cuisine.

South Dakota – Look’s Market, 1883

Look’s Market has expanded its offerings over the years while maintaining its reputation for quality meats and local goods.

Tennessee – White’s Marbleworks, 1870

White’s Marbleworks specializes in locally manufactured stone products and has remained a family-owned business for over 150 years.

Texas – Imperial Sugar, 1843

Imperial Sugar has played a significant role in Texas’s economy and continues to be a leading sugar producer.

Utah – Deseret News, 1850

Deseret News, Utah’s oldest newspaper, has adapted to the digital age while maintaining a strong local presence.

Vermont – Fort Ticonderoga Ferry, 1799

The Fort Ticonderoga Ferry continues to operate, providing a vital connection between Vermont and New York for over 220 years.

Virginia – Shirley Plantation, 1613

Shirley Plantation, the oldest company in Virginia and America, is now a National Historic Landmark open for public tours.

Washington – Laird Norton Co, 1855

Laird Norton Co has diversified its operations over the years and plays a significant role in Washington’s business landscape.

West Virginia – The Greenbrier, 1858

Greenbrier is not only a luxury resort but has also been a significant historical site, hosting prominent figures throughout its history.

Wisconsin – Minhas Craft Brewery, 1845

Minhas Craft Brewery is the second oldest brewery in the US, known for its extensive beer selection and rich history.

Wyoming – Miners and Stockmen’s Steakhouse, 1862

Miners and Stockmen’s Steakhouse offers a unique experience steeped in history, serving hearty meals in a historic setting.

Oldest Businesses In America FAQ

1. What is the oldest company still in business in the United States?

   The Shirley Plantation is the oldest business in the US. This former tobacco plantation was established in 1613 and is located in Charles City County, Virginia. Today, it is a non-profit National Historic Landmark.

   Other notable old businesses include:

   • Avedis Zildjian Company (1623) – Norwell, Massachusetts

   • Tuttle’s Red Barn (1632) – Dover, New Hampshire

   • Field View Farm (1639) – Orange, Connecticut

   • Barker’s Farm (1642) – North Andover, Massachusetts

2. How many US companies are over 100 years old?

   There are roughly 1,000 companies in the US that are over 100 years old. To put this into perspective, this number represents only about 0.8% of the over 126,000 companies in the US as of 2023.

   This is largely due to the fact that 65.5% of US companies fail within their first ten years.

Oldest Company In Each State Conclusion

We meticulously researched historical records and local publications to identify the oldest business still operating in each state. Although we have endeavored to provide accurate information, records can vary and may not always reflect the complete picture. Please reach out to kmorris@zippia.com if you have any corrections or know of any existing businesses that were overlooked.

We commend all the companies featured in this article. Running a business is no small feat, and these companies have triumphed over calamities, economic downturns, and changing times. Their resilience is a testament to their commitment to quality and service.

How have they prevailed? Through exceptional products, dedicated service, strategic adaptation, and a sprinkle of good fortune.

Author

Kathy Morris

Kathy is the head of content at Zippia with a knack for engaging audiences. Prior to joining Zippia, Kathy worked at Gateway Blend growing audiences across diverse brands. She graduated from Troy University with a degree in Social Science Education.